A French business electricity bill can contain dozens of line items. Yet it breaks down into four main categories that are essential to understand if you want to detect anomalies and optimise your costs. This guide walks you through each one.. At Unisave, we audit hundreds of professional bills each year — and the majority of errors stem from a lack of understanding of these components
1. Energy supply
This is the portion related to the electricity you actually consume. It is billed by your supplier (EDF, Engie, TotalEnergies, etc.) and consists of two elements:
- Subscription (fixed charge): a monthly amount based on the power level you have subscribed, expressed in kVA. The higher your subscribed power, the more expensive the subscription.
- Consumption (variable charge): the price per kWh multiplied by your actual consumption. This price varies depending on your tariff option (flat rate, peak/off-peak hours, etc.).
Key point: energy supply typically represents a significant portion of the total bill. The price of energy can be fixed, indexed to markets, or a combination of both. Understanding the available tariff options is crucial for optimizing your costs.
2. Network charges (TURPE)
TURPE (Tarif d'Utilisation des Reseaux Publics d'Electricite) covers the costs of accessing and using the electricity grid. It remunerates the grid operators — Enedis for distribution and RTE for transmission — for delivering electricity to your meter. This tariff is an essential element of your bill and is independent of your energy supplier.
TURPE is regulated and its calculation takes into account different components related to management, metering and subscribed power. It is designed to ensure the maintenance, development and modernization of the electricity grid.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Management component | Fixed fees for administrative management of your network access contract. |
| Metering component | Covers the provision, maintenance and reading of the meter. |
| Fixed withdrawal component | Fixed charge linked to the subscribed power on the distribution network, expressed in kVA. |
| Variable withdrawal component | Proportional to the energy actually withdrawn (in kWh), which may vary according to time slots and periods of the year. |
Important: TURPE rates are subject to change. It is important to consult the current tariff schedules, published by the Commission de Régulation de l'Énergie (CRE), to ensure that your bill reflects current rates.
3. Taxes and levies
A significant portion of your electricity bill consists of various taxes and levies, which are collected by energy suppliers and remitted to the State. These taxes can have a significant impact on the total cost of your bill.
Electricity excise duty (formerly TICFE / CSPE)
The electricity excise duty, formerly known as TICFE (Taxe Intérieure sur la Consommation Finale d'Électricité) and CSPE (Contribution au Service Public de l'Électricité), is a tax proportional to the quantity of electricity consumed. Its amount is set annually by the finance law.
Certain businesses may be eligible for reduced rates or exemptions, under certain conditions and depending on their activity. Eligible businesses include, but are not limited to:
- Electro-intensive businesses, meeting criteria defined in the customs code.
- Specific industrial processes, such as electrolysis or chemical reduction.
- Electricity used for rail transport.
CTA (Contribution Tarifaire d'Acheminement)
The Contribution Tarifaire d'Acheminement (CTA) is calculated on the fixed portion of the TURPE (Tarif d'Utilisation des Réseaux Publics d'Électricité). It is intended to finance specific rights relating to the old-age insurance of personnel in the electricity and gas industries. Its rate is set by ministerial decree.
VAT
The Taxe sur la Valeur Ajoutée (TVA) applies to almost all components of your electricity bill, but at different rates:
- 5.5% VAT: This reduced rate generally applies to the subscription and the CTA, for sites with a subscribed power of 36 kVA or less.
- 20% VAT: The standard rate applies to consumption, variable TURPE, electricity excise duty, as well as to the entire bill for sites with a subscribed power greater than 36 kVA.
Remember: Taxes and levies (excise duty, CTA, VAT) represent a significant portion of your electricity bill. Regular monitoring of legislative and regulatory developments is essential to optimize your bill and avoid the most common billing errors.
4. What to check first on your bill
Here are the points most frequently associated with errors or unnecessary costs:
- Subscribed power: is it correctly sized relative to your actual power demand? An oversized subscription inflates both the fixed charge and the TURPE fixed component.
- Tariff option: flat rate, peak/off-peak, or specific pricing — does your option match your consumption profile?
- Meter readings: are they actual (read by Enedis or remotely via Linky) or estimated? Estimated readings left uncorrected for months can generate significant discrepancies.
- TURPE version: does the applied tariff correspond to the current schedule published by the CRE?
- Taxes: if your activity qualifies you for a reduced excise rate, is the reduction actually being applied?
- Contract vs. bill alignment: do the unit prices on your bill match the contractual terms you signed?
Practical examples of calculation and optimization
Case 1: Optimizing the subscribed power for a manufacturing workshop
A manufacturing workshop has a subscribed power of 100 kVA. Analysis of consumption data over the last 12 months reveals that the maximum power actually drawn never exceeded 75 kVA. The monthly subscription for 100 kVA is €500, while for 80 kVA it would be €420. By reducing the subscribed power to 80 kVA, the workshop would save €80 per month, or €960 per year, on the subscription alone. In addition, the fixed withdrawal component of the TURPE would also be reduced, generating additional savings. It is crucial to verify that this power reduction will not cause nuisance tripping in the event of exceptional consumption peaks. A simulation with historical data is recommended.
Case 2: Impact of choosing the Peak Hours / Off-Peak Hours tariff option for a refrigerated warehouse
A refrigerated warehouse operates 24/7. Initially, it was on the Base tariff option. An analysis of its consumption shows that 60% of its consumption takes place during off-peak hours (usually at night and on weekends). The price per kWh during peak hours is €0.20, while during off-peak hours it is €0.12. By switching to the Peak Hours / Off-Peak Hours option, the warehouse could save:
- Without optimization: 60% of consumption at €0.12 instead of €0.20, i.e. a saving of €0.08 per kWh on 60% of total consumption.
- With optimization: By scheduling the defrosting of installations during off-peak hours, the warehouse could increase its consumption during off-peak hours to 70%, thus increasing savings.
It is important to note that the Peak Hours / Off-Peak Hours option often involves a slightly more expensive subscription. The break-even point must therefore be calculated according to the specific consumption of the company.
Case 3: Renegotiating the energy supply contract
An SME has a fixed-price electricity supply contract of €0.18/kWh. By consulting market offers, it notes that spot prices are currently around €0.15/kWh. It can then renegotiate its contract with its current supplier or prospect with other suppliers to obtain a more competitive price. A saving of €0.03/kWh on an annual consumption of 500,000 kWh represents a potential saving of €15,000 per year. It is crucial to carefully analyze the general terms and conditions of sale, in particular the price revision clauses and penalties in the event of early termination.
Tips for optimizing your electricity bill
Energy audit: The first step towards optimization
Carrying out an energy audit of your company is the first crucial step in understanding your consumption and identifying areas for improvement. This audit allows you to analyze in detail your consumption by item (lighting, heating, air conditioning, industrial equipment, etc.) and to detect waste and inefficiencies. The audit results in a concrete and quantified action plan, with personalized recommendations to reduce your electricity bill.
Active consumption management
The implementation of an active consumption management system (real-time monitoring of consumption, alerts in the event of exceeding thresholds, remote control of equipment) allows you to better control your consumption and react quickly in the event of an anomaly. Software solutions exist to collect and analyze consumption data, identify trends and areas for improvement. The installation of smart meters (Linky) facilitates data collection and consumption monitoring.
Investment in high-performance equipment
Replacing old and energy-intensive equipment with more efficient equipment (LED lighting, variable speed drives on motors, efficient heating and air conditioning systems, etc.) is a worthwhile long-term investment. The energy savings achieved quickly offset the cost of acquiring new equipment. Many financial aids (energy saving certificates, subsidies, tax credits) are available to encourage companies to invest in high-performance equipment.
Training and awareness of staff
Training and raising staff awareness of energy efficiency issues is essential to anchor good practices and encourage responsible behavior. Simple actions (turning off the lights when leaving a room, unplugging devices on standby, optimizing the setting of heating and air conditioning, etc.) can generate significant savings. The implementation of an internal challenge with consumption reduction objectives can stimulate staff engagement.
Anticipating developments in the energy market
The energy market is constantly evolving, with volatile prices and regulations that change regularly. It is important to stay informed of market trends and new technologies to anticipate risks and seize opportunities. Diversifying sources of supply (group purchasing, renewable energy, self-consumption) can reduce dependence on traditional suppliers and limit the impact of price fluctuations.
Errors to avoid in managing your electricity bill
Neglecting regular monitoring of your consumption
Regular monitoring of your consumption is essential to quickly detect anomalies (leaks, overconsumption, billing errors) and take the necessary corrective measures. Failure to monitor can lead to significant additional costs and compromise your optimization efforts.
Underestimating the impact of regulated tariffs
Even if you have a market price contract, regulated tariffs can have an indirect impact on your bill, in particular via the TURPE. It is important to understand how these tariffs are calculated and to monitor their evolution to anticipate any increases.
Not checking meter readings
Erroneous meter readings (estimated or poorly read) can lead to significant billing errors. It is important to regularly check the meter readings and report any anomalies to your supplier.
Ignoring available financial aid
Many financial aids (energy saving certificates, subsidies, tax credits) are available to encourage companies to invest in energy efficiency. Ignoring this aid means depriving yourself of opportunities to reduce your costs and improve your energy performance.
Focusing only on the price per kWh
The price per kWh is only one element of your electricity bill. It is important to take into account all the components (subscription, TURPE, taxes) to have a global view of your costs and identify the most relevant areas for optimization.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to dispute an electricity bill?
If you notice an error on your electricity bill, the first step is to contact your supplier by telephone or in writing (registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt) to report the error and ask them to correct it. Attach the necessary supporting documents to your complaint (meter readings, previous invoices, etc.). If your supplier does not respond or if their response does not satisfy you, you can contact the energy ombudsman, an independent body that can help you resolve the dispute.
What is the floor area ratio (FAR) and how does it impact my bill?
The floor area ratio (FAR) does not directly impact your electricity bill. The FAR is a town planning rule that defines the density of construction allowed on a plot of land. It can indirectly influence your electricity consumption if your activity is linked to the built area (for example, a larger warehouse will require more lighting and air conditioning).
How to choose the right electricity supplier for my company?
Choosing the right electricity supplier depends on several factors, including your consumption profile, your budget, your green energy objectives, and your risk appetite. It is important to compare the offers of different suppliers taking into account the price per kWh, the price of the subscription, the general terms and conditions of sale, and the quality of customer service. Do not hesitate to call on an energy broker to help you compare offers and negotiate the best rates.
What are the regulatory obligations regarding energy efficiency for companies?
Companies are subject to several regulatory obligations regarding energy efficiency, including the mandatory energy audit for large companies, the tertiary decree which imposes energy consumption reduction objectives for tertiary buildings, and the energy saving certificates (CEE) which encourage companies to carry out work to improve energy efficiency.
How to benefit from a reduced rate of excise duty on electricity?
To benefit from a reduced rate of excise duty on electricity, your company must meet certain eligibility criteria, in particular being an electro-intensive company or carrying out a specific activity (electrolysis, chemical reduction, rail transport). You must submit a request for reimbursement or exemption to the customs administration, providing the necessary supporting documents.
Case study: Reducing the electricity bill of a food processing plant
A food processing plant consumed 1,200,000 kWh per year, with an annual bill of €216,000. After a complete energy audit, several actions were put in place:
- Replacement of lighting with LEDs: saving 15,000 kWh per year.
- Optimization of the industrial refrigeration system: saving 60,000 kWh per year.
- Installation of variable speed drives on pump motors: saving 25,000 kWh per year.
- Renegotiation of the electricity supply contract: reduction in the price per kWh from €0.18 to €0.16.
Thanks to these actions, the plant reduced its annual consumption by 100,000 kWh and its annual bill by €32,000, a saving of 15%. The total investment was €80,000, with a return on investment of 2.5 years.
Self-consumption: a solution to reduce your dependence on the grid
Self-consumption consists of producing and consuming your own electricity, generally from photovoltaic solar panels. This solution allows you to reduce your dependence on the grid, control your energy costs, and contribute to the energy transition. Self-consumption can be total (you consume all the electricity you produce) or partial (you consume part of the electricity you produce and inject the surplus into the grid). Financial aid (self-consumption bonus, tax credit) is available to encourage companies to invest in self-consumption.
Comparison of electricity offers for professionals
| Type of offer | Advantages | Disadvantages | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regulated tariff (TRV) | Simplicity, price stability (relative), no commitment | Price often higher than market offers, little flexibility | Small businesses with low consumption and little energy expertise |
| Fixed price offer | Budget predictability, protection against price increases | Less flexible than indexed offers, risk of paying more if prices fall | Companies that prioritize stability and security |
| Market-indexed offer | Potential for savings if prices fall, more transparency | Risk of strong price fluctuations, requires regular market monitoring | Companies with a good knowledge of the energy market and a high appetite for risk |
| Green offer | Contribution to the energy transition, positive brand image | Price often higher than conventional offers, requires verification of the origin of electricity | Companies committed to a sustainable development approach |
In summary
Your professional electricity bill is made up of three main components: supply (the price per kWh), network charges (TURPE) and taxes (excise duty, CTA, VAT). Understanding these components is the first step to spotting anomalies and optimising your costs.
At Unisave, we audit every line of your bills to identify discrepancies and savings opportunities.
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